The man in his 40s died at the scene after crossing tram lines, before getting lodged under a tram departing a stop at Surry Hills in Sydney on Thursday afternoon.
An investigation has begun but police are not treating the death as suspicious.
"We've spoken to a number of witnesses, and that initial CCTV review at this stage (shows) he was waiting on the platform and then stepped off to try and cross the tramway between the carriages," NSW Police Inspector Anderson Lessing said.
"That'll form our report to the coroner ... it appears to be a set of tragic circumstances on the platform."
A police rescue operation lifted the tram carriage to free the man, Transport for NSW coordinator-general Howard Collins said.
"Emergency services have provided medical care, but unfortunately, that male was pronounced deceased at this stage."
The death comes after a teenage girl died after getting trapped under a tram in Sydney's CBD in 2023.
Clear signage is at the station to stop people from walking on tram lines, Mr Collins said.
"It is important to understand that there are warning signs, both in English and also a pictorial sign, clearly advising people," he said.
"The operator will work with the regulator to ensure that if there are any recommendations, we'll act upon this."
Passengers on board at the time and rail staff are being offered support services, Mr Collins added.
Light rail services are running as normal after halting for a number of hours.
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